Music at the Van Kirk Homestead

Historical society hosts Smooth Sailin'

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Smooth Sailin'

SPARTA — Listen to the music of Smooth Sailin', easy listening sounds with Dr. Fred Van Keuren on drums and Jeff Gaynor on guitar, bass and vocals, Sunday, August 27 from 1- 4 pm at the Van Kirk Homestead, at 336 Main Street, Sparta (use Route 517 Sparta Middle School Driveway). Bring your lawn chair for easy listening to the selections from the latest CD release, “A Little Romance,” also available for purchase. There will be no rain date. Members are free and each guest is a $5 dollar donation.

Dr. Fred Van Keuren founded his dental practice, Mohawk Dentistry in 1990 in Sparta. His love of music began at his Aunt Catherine’s home where he studied piano and later played drums in high school. While pursuing his dental career he continued to make musical appearances in NYC and at the World Trade Center. He also owned and operated the Vernon School of Music and Dance. Many of the compositions you will hear on Sunday are original works by Dr. Fred. His daughter, Dr. Paige Van Keuren, also a dentist, works in the dental practice which allows Dr. Fred more time to pursue his passion for music.

Jeff Gaynor, a Bronx guy who learned guitar, joined the Navy and played music as a Good Will Ambassador while on his ship. He toured with show bands and won several awards doing studio work in the New York Metro area. Upon moving in the 1970’s to Sussex County, he continued to perform locally and teach. The SMOOTH SAILIN’ duo entertains in the area at various music venues and restaurants.

The Van Kirk Homestead will also be open and hosting the final day of our summer arts exhibit “Photographers Eye the Van Kirk Homestead.” Stay tuned for more news regarding our fall exhibit entitled “Princess White Deer: A Woman, A Mohawk and a Legend,” curated by Patricia Galperin, opening on Sunday, September 24. This fall exhibit will continue every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month from October through December, 1-4 pm with a special gallery talk at 2 pm. Additional information including group tours, call 973-726-0883 or by email at spartahistoricalsocnj@gmail.com. Funding has been made available in part by the NJ Historical Commission through the County History Partnership Program, as administered by the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council.